Distracted Driving Awareness Month

September is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and ICBC launched a campaign yesterday urging drivers to “take a break from [their] phone[s]”.

Resisting the temptation of e-mails, texts, calls, posts and cat videos can be hard but it can be done similar to being at the movies, at customs, during takeoff or landing. Think of all the times that you don’t feel like taking a break from your phone but do!

Tips for safe cellphone use

No call, text or emailis so important it’s worth risking your life or the lives of others. Let calls go to voicemail and ignore your text messages while driving.

Turn it off and put it out of sightor turn on airplane mode to avoid the temptation to check your phone.

Assign a designated texter. Ask your passengers to make or receive calls and texts for you.

Pull over to make or receive a callwhen it’s safe to do so. For longer journeys, look for signs at highway rest areas, some of which now provide free Wi-Fi.

Use the ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’feature on iOS devices, ‘In-Traffic Reply’ on Samsung phones, or download a similar app to help you avoid using your phone while driving.

Learn the rules of the road

Don’t use your cellphone at a red light.The law applies whenever you’re in control of the vehicle, whether stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Keep your hands off.Hands-free means a Bluetooth, wired headset or speakerphone that can be operated with one touch or voice commands. Make sure to secure the cellphone to the vehicle or attach it on your body before driving.

If you have a Learner’s (L) or Novice (N) licence, you aren’t allowed to use any electronic device behind the wheel, for any purpose, even in hands-free mode.

Show your support

You can help make our streets and communities safer by encouraging others to leave the phone alone behind the wheel. Get a distracted driving sticker and show your support. They are available at participating ICBC Driver Licensing and Autoplan broker offices.